On January 10, 2024, Public Services and Procurement Canada made an announcement reinforcing the Government of Canada’s unwavering dedication to equipping the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) with cutting-edge vehicles, gear, and services. This commitment, rooted in ensuring the safety of Canadians, extends to bolstering the CAF’s logistics supply chain, crucial for both domestic and international operations and exercises.
At the core of this logistics network are specialized vehicles responsible for the transportation of materiel, munitions, personnel, and various supplies within and between operational zones. In an effort characterized by openness, fairness, and transparency, Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) conducted a meticulous procurement process, engaging with multiple players in the industry. Emerging from this scrutiny is General Dynamics Land Systems–Canada, identified as the preferred bidder entrusted with furnishing the CAF with a state-of-the-art fleet comprising both light and heavy logistics vehicles, along with accompanying equipment and in-service support.
“The identification of General Dynamics Land Systems–Canada as the preferred bidder for the Logistics Vehicle Modernization project marks a significant milestone in the procurement process to modernize the Canadian Armed Forces’ existing fleet. This will ensure members of the CAF are equipped with the vehicles, equipment, and services they need to continue to fulfill combat, disaster relief and peacekeeping missions in Canada and abroad,” commented the Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Public Services and Procurement.
The envisioned outcome of this procurement is a modernized fleet, armed with enhanced mobility and protection capabilities, fortifying the CAF’s capacity to execute missions on Canadian soil and beyond. The Logistics Vehicle Modernization (LVM) project signals a departure from the existing fleet, ushering in a new era of vehicles designed to facilitate the seamless transfer of resources, personnel, and military assets during diverse domestic and international operations and training exercises.
“Through the Logistics Vehicle Modernization project, we are investing to provide the Canadian Armed Forces with modern logistics vehicles that will be used to transport personnel, equipment and supplies in support of operations at home and abroad. Today’s milestone is an important step forward in this project. This decision brings the Canadian Army closer to receiving the vehicles that it needs to continue to protect Canadians,” expressed the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence.
Reaching a pivotal juncture in the competitive procurement process, the selection of General Dynamics Land Systems–Canada as the preferred bidder follows an arduous bid evaluation, positioning the company for an anticipated contract award in spring 2024, subject to final government approvals.
In adherence to Canada’s Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy, the chosen supplier is mandated to make investments within the country equivalent to the acquisition’s value. Adding another layer of inclusivity, the preferred bidder is obligated to submit an Indigenous Participation Plan post-contract award. This innovative plan aims to allocate up to 5% of the contract value towards supporting Indigenous employment, as well as sourcing goods and services from Indigenous businesses and entrepreneurs. Beyond economic considerations, the plan will spearhead training and skill development initiatives in collaboration with the Indigenous partners of the preferred bidder. This multifaceted approach is not just a procurement milestone; it’s a commitment to progress and inclusivity in the realm of defense logistics.
“The Canadian Armed Forces members deserve the modern equipment required to effectively perform their duties at home and abroad. This project will provide military members with the needed vehicle fleet while also creating and maintaining highly skilled jobs and contributing to economic growth in Canada,” said the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne
Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry.
